Pyxis by Autumn Reed & Julia Clarke

Author:Autumn Reed & Julia Clarke [Reed, Autumn & Clarke, Julia]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Tags: BA
Published: 2016-08-01T07:00:00+00:00

Ready, Aim, Fire

Scanning the houses along East Cliff Drive, I wondered which one belonged to Jackson. I was excited to finally see his house, curious if it would at all fit the image in my mind. Knox slowed the truck and pulled into the driveway of one of the cutest houses on the street; if I had to pick one as my favorite based on exterior alone, this would definitely be it.

Waves crashed in the background as we walked up the paved stone pathway through the grassy lawn. Jackson’s charming bungalow had crisp white siding, and despite the low roofline, there appeared to be a second story. Dark charcoal trim lined the windows and all the exterior light fixtures were a dark, almost black, metal. Knox knocked on the charcoal-colored front door, and I could see Jackson’s figure approaching through the beveled glass windows that covered the top half.

“Come on in,” Jackson said, ushering us inside while keeping Penny from escaping to the small front yard and relatively busy road. Jackson was barefoot but otherwise still in his work attire, his shirtsleeves rolled up. Penny immediately greeted me, licking my hand and inviting me to pet her. “Thanks again for watching Penny. I really appreciate it.”

“Absolutely,” I said, ruffling Penny’s fur and trying not to be too obvious about checking out Jackson’s house as we followed him to the kitchen. A passing glance revealed that a door to the left led to a study with a sofa, and on the right was a full bathroom. Hardwood floors in a light stain with gray undertones ran the length of the first floor.

The interior was cozy, serene, and surprisingly relaxed considering what I knew of Jackson’s personality. Despite the cooler blue and white tones of the color palette, his home felt warm and welcoming. I loved the kitchen’s white cabinets and tile backsplash the color of sea glass. The main living space was divided between the kitchen and living room, all with windows that overlooked the ocean below.

While Jackson talked with Knox and gave him a tote packed with Penny’s food, leash, and toys, I peered out the wall of windows leading to a large deck with a wire railing that provided an unobstructed view. Situated on top of a cliff overlooking the ocean, there was a relatively steep incline behind the house. Halfway down the hill was a paved walking path, and in the near distance I could see a stairway that appeared to lead to the beach.

Large boulders provided a barrier between the beach and Jackson’s house. With the sun near setting and the temperature relatively cool, the beach was mostly empty. Any surfers determined enough to brave the chilly water were wading into the shore, the daylight soon fading.

“Like what you see?” Jackson asked, his voice indicating he was right behind me.

“I love it. Your house is beautiful.” I turned to face him. “Are you sure you only need a dog sitter and not a house sitter as well?” I inquired with a grin.

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